[Pooya/Ali Commentary 2:45] Wasta-inu (seek help) applies to worldly as well as spiritual matters as stated in verse 5 of al Fatihah. Sabr (patience) and salat (prayer) curb vain desires, pride and self-indulgence and lead to humility, acceptance and obedience. The Arabic word sabr has many shades of implied suggestions - willingness to endure, submission, self-control, serenity, poise, and ability to continue. Salat has been explained in verse 3 of this surah. To liberate the human ego from the clutches of the excessive attachment to bodily wants and material success, a refined discipline has to be built through subordinating the body to the control of the spiritual energy, otherwise mere formal rituals and recitation of chants and charms do not help man to rise above the level of animal life, as has been shown by Ali ibna abi Talib. The whole world bears witness to the fact that in wisdom, spiritual achievements, and bodily strength there is no one who can be compared with him. He stands high and above in the select company of the most devoted servants of Allah. The lives of the Holy Prophet, Bibi Fatimah, his daughter and the Holy Imams is a brilliant light which throws light on the path to be followed by the sincere faithful who seek assistance (wasta-inu) to build up the balanced character mentioned above, and referred to in this verse. It is reported that whenever the Holy Prophet or any of the holy Imams, or Bibi Fatimah faced any difficulty, they prayed salat and sought Allah's help. (see commentary for verse 4)